The Keighley News appeal to raise a massive £1 million for Manorlands has smashed through its target.

Caring readers responded magnificently when the Sue Ryder hospice revealed it needed the colossal sum simply to maintain its invaluable services for the coming year for people with life-limiting illnesses.

Since the launch of the Million for Manorlands campaign 12 months ago, the public has rallied round by staging its own fundraising activities and supporting events organised by the charity.

People’s generosity was exemplified yet again when the Oxenhope hospice’s recent annual Keighley BigK 10k run and walk coined-in a superb £60,000.

Now the appeal total stands at a truly incredible £1,070,509.

“It’s fantastic news we have surpassed the million pound mark, and we’d like to thank every single person who has donated money or their time to support Manorlands after being inspired through reading about the appeal,” said Hannah Taylor, Sue Ryder regional fundraising manager.

“We’d also like to thank everyone at the Keighley News for their fantastic support.

“Manorlands has been at the heart of the newspaper’s readership for 40 years, but despite the generosity of the local community, we do not raise enough money to cover the costs of running the vital services at – and from – the hospice.

“The appeal has helped raise awareness of this fact, and the response has been overwhelming. We’re very grateful to everyone who has contributed and made it such a success.”

Keighley News editor Richard Parker said the support from readers had been phenomenal.

“Once again the people of Keighley district have shown that even when times are hard, their generosity holds no bounds,” he said.

“Not only is it a reflection of the public’s overwhelming generosity, but it also clearly illustrates the huge regard in which Manorlands and its staff are held.”

But Mrs Taylor stressed the fundraising doesn’t end there.

“Every year the hospice has to raise more money just to maintain current services,” she said.

“The sad reality is most people do not get the care they want at the end of their lives. According to a recent report, 78 per cent of people said pain relief is their main priority, but only 19 per cent get the relief they need.

“With the support of the local community, we can continue to ensure people get access to pain relief and receive the incredible care we provide.”

Manorlands has a host of fundraising activities coming up, which people are being urged to get involved in.

Call the fundraising team on 01535 640430 for further details about events, or for help with organising your own.

People can also donate via text.

To give £3, text MANOR to 70123. Manorlands will receive a minimum of £2.96 from each £3 donation. Texts cost £3 plus a standard rate message.